How Is Systemic Mastocytosis Diagnosed?

Systemic mastocytosis is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, bone marrow tests, and imaging tests. These tests help to identify the presence of mast cells and their byproducts in the body, which are indicative of the disease. Mast cells are a type of white blood cell found in the connective tissue throughout the body.

Blood Tests:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures the number of different types of cells in the blood. In systemic mastocytosis, there may be an increase in the number of mast cells.
• Tryptase Level: Tryptase is a chemical that is released by mast cells. A high level of tryptase in the blood can indicate systemic mastocytosis.
• Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Level: IgE is an antibody that is often elevated in people with allergies and certain types of mastocytosis.

Bone Marrow Tests:

• Bone Marrow Biopsy: In this test, a small amount of bone marrow is removed from the body and examined under a microscope. The presence of an abnormal number of mast cells can indicate systemic mastocytosis.
• Flow Cytometry: This test is used to measure the number and type of cells in a sample of bone marrow. It can help to identify abnormal mast cells.
• Cytogenetic Analysis: This test looks at the chromosomes of cells from a sample of bone marrow. It can help to identify genetic changes that are associated with systemic mastocytosis.

Imaging Tests:

• Computerized Tomography (CT) Scan: This imaging test can help to identify any organ damage or enlargement that may be caused by systemic mastocytosis.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This imaging test can provide detailed images of the body's organs and tissues, which can help to identify any abnormalities caused by systemic mastocytosis.

A Summary of Diagnosing Systemic Mastocytosis

Diagnosing systemic mastocytosis involves a combination of blood tests, bone marrow tests, and imaging tests. These tests help to identify the presence of mast cells and their byproducts in the body, as well as any organ damage or abnormalities. The diagnosis is confirmed by the presence of an abnormal number of mast cells in the bone marrow and a high level of tryptase in the blood.

Want to Learn More About Systemic Mastocytosis?

Keep reading HealthTree for Systemic Mastocytosis's 101 pages!

• What Is Systemic Mastocytosis?
• How Long Will I Live With Systemic Mastocytosis?
• What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Systemic Mastocytosis?
• How Is Systemic Mastocytosis Staged And Classified?
• What Are Treatments For Systemic Mastocytosis?